Google Drive Update Marks End Of Android 4.0 Support, But Brings Small Improvements

Google is rolling out a new update (version 2.4.311) to its Drive app for the Android OS, and it is one that brings sad news to owners of mobile devices that are stuck on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Unfortunately, this update will be the last one for that Android OS version.

According to GSM Arena, the change-log of the new update states that it is the final update of the Drive app for the Ice Cream Sandwich OS, and this just means that the app on Android 4.0-running devices will not receive future updates, which could include new features and functionality, from now on.

Although there is no formal reason given by Google on why it is cutting update support of Drive for Android 4.0 devices, 9To5Google states that the Ice Cream Sandwich OS is currently used by 1.6 percent of Android users only. Given the low percentage, it is not surprising then that the four-year-old operating system has been cut off of future updates support.

Meanwhile, aside from being the last supported update of Drive for Android 4.0, it still brings with it a couple of minimal yet very useful features that enhance the usability of the app.

One of the new features is a shortcut widget that enables users to directly access files or folders on the homescreen. To activate the widget, users must drag it from the widget pane to the homescreen. The gesture will prompt the app to ask the user about the Google Account her or she wishes to have shortcut access to. Though this is obviously a minor update, Engadget says that it will come in handy for users who want to be productive using the app.

Another new feature is the “Upgrade storage” option that displays a Drive storage page where users will see how much space is still available for them to use. This feature also gives users access to the different monthly plans in case they are in need of storage upgrade.

Finally, Drive update version 2.4.311 comes with important bug fixes and a couple of performance-related improvements.